2001 Tacoma 2.4L cranks but unable to start

Hey all, I know I could go log into my account on Tacomaworld but I like it here more I have a new-to-me 2001 Tacoma reg cab 2wd with the 2.4L 4cyl with 189K on it.

In the 3 weeks Ive had it, it's always kind of had a 'longer' crank-to-start time in my opinion, so I figured mild tune up items might help. After changing out few standard little things like spark plugs, air filter, PCV, battery, and oil/filter, it was running fine—but about the same.

It is now unable to start. It cranks, gets right close to turning over, then you just hear the starter. If I press the accellerator pedal, it helps it, but still cant run. When I do that, it also puffs out a hefty amount of gas-smoke. It seems almost exactly the same as the start up in this youtube video.

My guess is the fuel pump has gone but figured maybe others have other suggestions on simpler things to check first.

Pic for fun:

 

How’s the battery?

 

Hit the bottom of the fuel tank with a hammer.

also check fuel filter.

also check timing.

also check codes.

 

Only a couple weeks old, was working well before. Its cranking so I think its probably fine

Will check those! and get out the hammer. Thanks!

 

Well going through the basics: fuel, compression, and timing. Considering you said it runs (or ran) fine, I would think timing and compression are good and there's no proof fuel is good. I would crawl under it and put a screw driver/your ear against the tank and have someone crank it and see if you hear the pump fire up. I forget if the pumps turn on with ignition on with those.

And if that checks out then move down the system. Probably crack a line at the fuel rail and see if there's pressure there and that would weed out the fuel filter then.

You could also use starting fluid and see if it fires up, then you know it's not getting fuel.

 

No, gotta be actively cranking for the pump to run.

 

directly under the fuel pump, if that works, or if the plug gets voltage but doesnt run, replace fuel pump.

 

Gonna try the starting fluid trick when the weather clears up, but I havent had any luck so far. Do you guys think it could be a spark issue considering there is gas-smelling smoke after attempting to turn it over?

 

Timing belt?

 

Sounds like it’s getting gas, at least when you floor the pedal. Either no spark, or no compression. After a cursory inspection of the usual things, air filter, spark plugs, fluids etc, I would do a compression check.

 

Well, I had to go back to work, so I had a shop take a look. They said the IACV has gone bad and needs to be replaced. Not what I was expecting at all, but I suppose if it wasnt getting enough air at idle it makes sense it couldnt turn over.